1 c. chopped dates
1 1/2 c. boiling water
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
3/4 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 3/4 c. flour
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 (12 oz.) pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips
Chopped walnuts
1/4 c. sugar

Combine dates, boiling water and 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda. Let stand until cool. Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs and beat well. Add date mixture. Add flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and salt. Batter will be thin. Pour into baking pan. Sprinkle 1/4 cup sugar, chocolate chips and nuts over top. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.